Jose Reyes took one for the team Friday night.
To conform with Miami Marlins policy, the 28-year-old shortstop cut off his famed dreadlocks, which he had sported the past three years as a member of the New York Mets.
The Marlins have a strict grooming policy, and Reyes met it in grand style. "At the same time, I understand it's a rule of my new team, the Miami Marlins. The Marlins signed Reyes to a six-year, $106 million contract in December.
Cutting his hair 23 days before Marlins position players report to Spring Training is one of Reyes' first steps in fitting in with his new club.
Reyes used his platform on MLB Network to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of South Florida.
Reyes' hair has been packaged and authenticated by Major League Baseball. MLB Network set up a barber chair, and the haircut was performed by Jordan (who was wearing a red-orange Marlins cap) of Jordan Sports Barbershop in Bronx, N.Y.
Asked how he felt with a trimmed-up look, Reyes said: "A little bit lighter. Reyes did reveal a bit of untold information regarding his hair. With a new look, Reyes is ready to rejoin his new team.
In a five-day span, the Marlins signed Reyes, closer Heath Bell and left-hander Mark Buehrle.
In 2011, Reyes won the National League batting title with a .337 average. "I've been working out six days a week, just to get ready for Spring Training," Reyes said. Marlins pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training on Feb. 22, with position players getting under way Feb. 26.
"I haven't got to Spring Training yet. Optimism is high in Miami after an offseason where the Marlins have added Reyes, Bell, Buehrle and Carlos Zambrano.
Reyes feels the 2012 Marlins can be a playoff club.
"Heath Bell, Mark Buehrle.
